monobenzone topical

Generic name: monobenzone topical [ mon-oh-BEN-zone-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand name: Benoquin
Drug class: Topical depigmenting agents

What is monobenzone topical?

Monobenzone is a depigmenting agent. It works by increasing elimination of melanin (pigment molecules) from skin cells.

Monobenzone topical (for the skin) is used to permanently lighten skin in people with vitiligo. Depigmenting darker skin around the areas of vitiligo helps even out coloring and appearance of the skin.

Monobenzone is not for treating freckles, café-au-lait spots, sun damage, melanoma, jaundice, or other pigmentation disorders not caused by vitiligo.

Monobenzone may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about monobenzone topical?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to monobenzone. Do not use monobenzone on any areas that are not affected by vitiligo.

Monobenzone is not for treating freckles, café-au-lait spots, sun damage, melanoma, jaundice, or other pigmentation disorders not caused by vitiligo.

It may take up to 4 months to complete the depigmentation of treated skin. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your condition does not improve after 1 month of treatment.

Skin treated with monobenzone may be especially sensitive to sunlight or irritation for the rest of your life.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Monobenzone can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.

Using monobenzone may also cause changes in the color of your untreated skin. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about possible depigmentation of other skin areas not affected by vitiligo.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using monobenzone?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to monobenzone. Do not use monobenzone on any areas that are not affected by vitiligo.

Monobenzone is not to be used as a cosmetic bleaching agent.

To make sure you can safely use monobenzone, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether monobenzone will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether monobenzone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not use this medication on a child younger than 12 years old.

Related/similar drugs

Opzelura, ruxolitinib topical, methoxsalen topical

How should I use monobenzone?

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Monobenzone is usually applied 2 or 3 times per day. Apply in a thin layer to the pigmented skin areas and rub in gently.

It may take up to 4 months to complete the depigmentation of treated skin. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your condition does not improve after 1 month of treatment.

After the first 4 months of treatment, you may need to use monobenzone only twice per week to maintain desired results.

Using monobenzone may cause changes in the color of your untreated skin. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about possible depigmentation of other skin areas not affected by vitiligo.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking monobenzone?

Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Monobenzone can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.

Skin treated with monobenzone may be especially sensitive to sunlight or irritation for the rest of your life. You should always wear sunscreen.

Monobenzone side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using monobenzone and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• severe skin irritation;

• intense itching;

• severe burning; or

• redness or swelling of treated skin.

Less serious side effects may include:

• dryness or flaking of treated skin; or

• mild skin irritation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect monobenzone?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied monobenzone. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 1.04. Revision Date: 2010-12-15, 5:01:39 PM.